Yummy Meatballs

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Savory meatballs infused with onions and herbs, cooked to perfection and served with a flavorful chili ketchup glaze, making them perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3/4 to 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 2 Tbsp margarine
  • 1 bottle chili sauce
  • 12 to 14 oz ketchup
  • 10 to 12 oz grape jelly

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef, egg, diced onion, and bread crumbs together until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1 to 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
  3. Fry the meatballs in margarine until cooked through and browned.
  4. Prepare the sauce by combining chili sauce, ketchup, and grape jelly in a saucepan.
  5. Simmer the sauce until heated through and slightly thickened.
  6. Serve the meatballs hot with the sauce poured over them.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture. If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. Adjust the size of the meatballs for cooking time; larger ones may take longer to cook through. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option or ground turkey for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread. Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve them in a sub roll for meatball sandwiches. They also make a great appetizer at parties; just keep toothpicks handy for easy serving. Consider pairing with Mrs. Texas Casserole for a hearty dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water to maintain moisture, and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Yummy Meatballs contains roughly 3114 calories, with 76g protein, 553g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (152% of the Daily Value), iron (121% of the Daily Value), and calcium (100% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

3114 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 76.2g 100% DV
Total Fat 71.5g 92% DV
Carbs 553g 100% DV
Fiber 12.9g 46% DV
Sugar 80.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 3511mg 75% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 299.5mcg 33% DV
Vitamin C 22.6mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 1302.8mg 100% DV
Iron 21.8mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. If cooked, allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. For best quality, consume within 3 months.

What can I use instead of grape jelly?

If you don’t have grape jelly, other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot can work well. Alternatively, you can use honey or brown sugar mixed with a bit of vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences.

How can I make the meatballs healthier?

To make these meatballs healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and reduce the amount of bread crumbs. You can also add finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to add moisture and nutrients. Baking the meatballs instead of frying them can also reduce fat content.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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